Water is the most basic of necessities - no one can survive without it. Yet 884 million (roughly 1 out of every 8 people in the world) don't have access to clean, safe water. At Samaritan's Purse, we are committed to doing something about that. With the help of local churches and charities, we have already ensured that thousands of families across Africa have access to safe water and sanitation, while providing them with an opportunity to hear about the 'living water' which Jesus said could be found in Him.

Operation Christmas Child

Pastor David blesses the shoeboxes before they make their journey - 2015

Operation Christmas Child is the world's largest children's Christmas appeal with a heritage of 22 years.

Every year Operation Christmas Child is made possible through the amazing support of thousands of children and adults in the UK and Ireland.

Last year alone we had the joy of sending nearly 1.12 million shoeboxes bursting with joy from the UK and over 200,000 from Ireland to children in parts of Africa, Central Asia and Eastern Europe.

All shoeboxes are given to children in need, with no regard to their background or beliefs.

We work with local partners on the ground to ensure that your gift-filled shoebox is delivered with integrity and with respect to the local culture.

Where culturally appropriate, our overseas partners will make available a booklet of Bible stories, which gives a message of hope and an explanation of the true meaning of Christmas - God's gift of His Son, Jesus